Modelling multi-directional wind waves and swell in an experimental basin

Results of four models to simulate the coexistence of swell and wind waves in an experimental basin are presented. Engineers can use these models to assess the effects of wave directionality on structures, and to study effects of swell and wind waves separately, before combining these wave systems to determine their effects together. A frequency interlace technique was used to superimpose swell and wind waves to form a combined wave field. Measured and numerically synthesized results indicated that the quality of the combined wave is comparable to that of a multi-directional wave. The combined wave field is spatially homogeneous and repeatable. Bidirectional spreading was reproduced in frequencies where swell and wind wave spectra overlapped.